I'm curious Grass, how far off is the planet's rotation to earths? I ask in my head as we walk.

Not much actually. We think it is about five seconds off your earth day. We could have the computer calculate for sure.

Nah that is all right. I was just curious. It's not enough to throw me off I think.

We doubt it.

Good.

The four of us walk in silence as Berg leads. The land looks to be fairly flat. In the distance I see what looks like hills. It is possible that it is an illusion of the grass too.

The grass comes to about our ankles in town, but as we exit the boundaries, it fluctuates between ankle deep and thigh deep.

I remember shows about snakes and wonder if any could be hidden in this grass. On earth you would see bugs flying around the grass, but this area looks to be void of insect life.

As we get farther away from town, I notice small patches of dead dry grass. I say dead, but I am not sure because Berg steers us away from them.

I feel the temperature rise as the sun peaks farther over the horizon. I then start to consider the heat factor.

Grass, what is the temperature like in this area? In Fahrenheit please. You might have to have the computer convert for you. I say my head.

We already had it doing just that. It will be done shortly. There is a pause of a minute or so. According to the computer it can be from eighty degrees Fahrenheit to one hundred ten degrees Fahrenheit during the day.

Ooo that might be a problem. I reply in my head.

We are working on a solution now.

Okay. I respond in my head. I then say, “We might have a problem right at the first.”

Berg stops and faces me, and we all stop with him. “What?”

“The temperature on the planet gets high. We may have to take extra breaks to keep from overheating.”

“No it doesn't,” Tieth says. “It is always comfortable. Never too hot or cold.”

I look at Tieth, “The computer, I am guessing, keeps the town at a comfortable temp. I think it extends about two yards outside of town. Being we are outside the computer's influence, so we are at the mercy of nature.”

“What is nature?” comes the soft voice of Peth.

“It is what my people call the planet's ecosystem. The planet has a strong fluctuation in temp, to balance itself out. I'm sure you might have noticed the temp rising as we walk.”

“I thought I was just causing it by walking,” Berg says.

“Well the body does produce extra heat as you walk, but what you are feeling is the day warming up. The bad thing is that it will continue until just before sunset.”

“You mean the planet will burn us?” Tieth asks, scared.

“No it won't do that. It will just get so hot and stop. But the temp will get hot enough to become uncomfortable.”

“What can we do?” asks Peth.

“The computer is trying to find a solution. If it doesn't, we will just have to take our time. It might take us longer, but we will be better off.”

“What do we do?” Berg asks.

“Right now we just walk, and if anyone gets too hot we stop and rest. Did you bring water?”

“What is water?” Peth asks.

“Oh dear lord,” I blurt, “Don't you all drink something?”

“Drink?” Peth questions.

“Okay hold on a bit,” I say then speak in my mind. What in the world? They are going to die of dehydration.

Possible, but unlikely. The algae gives them enough liquid to sustain them.

If they are in town, but they are going to sweat off a lot more.

Oh sorry we did not anticipate that. We require very little water and don't perspire. This might be a problem.

Well the brother did it. We just have to figure out how. I would say go back and get some, but I doubt I can find any.

We think you are right. We don't see much mention of water.

Okay this doesn't make sense. How did they all survive for so long without water. The body is something like ninety percent water.

The algae compresses the water molecules so they actually get more water then it looks.

Okay do your calcu-thingy and see how we stand.”

Okay. I can hear the urgency in Grass's reply.

“The computer is working on a solution. We can at least keep walking while we wait. I know Tieth's brother made it, so there has to be a way,” I motion for us to continue.

Reluctantly they all turn and start walking. Well except Cliff. He didn't seem to care one way or the other. I walk up next to Cliff.

“Tell me of your connect.” I say while looking forward.

I see him glance at me out of the corner of my eye. He then asks, “Must I?”

“Of course you don't. Everyone grieves in their own way. I just know where I come from, everyone gets together and talks about the dearly departed to help each other through the grief.”

“Why did you refer to the dead as 'Dearly departed?'” Cliff asks with only a slight interest.

“Where I come from the person who has died is celebrated for the great things they do. Dearly departed is our way to help the living handle the death. Dearly refers to the honor we feel for being in that person's life.”

We walk in silence for some time before Cliff speaks again. “Can you tell me of your grieving time, on your planet?”

“I have not had the pain of losing someone, but I can tell you how others have done it. On my planet there is no set grieving time. Each person is allowed to grieve how ever long they want to.

After the dearly departed has died everyone that knows them, and wants to, gather at a wake. It is simply a time where everyone gets together and comforts each other.”

“Why is it called a wake?” I can hear a slight increase in his mood.

“I'm not really sure. But I heard that it was because in older times they weren't sure the person was dead. So to be sure, they would lay out the body for so long to see if they wake up.”

“But memory tells when they are dead.” Cliff seems to be getting really interested in what I am saying.

“On my planet we don't have a memory. We have doctors. And they do not know even half of what memory knows. But anyway while everyone is together we talk about all the things the person did. We laugh and we cry together.”

“Why would you laugh at someone dying?” Cliff sounds disgusted. I realize how similar this scenario is to the one me and Grass had. The only difference is the shoe is on the other foot.

“We do not laugh because of the person who dies. We laugh at the funny things the person did. We laugh at jokes some say. But I think we laugh to help us from falling apart.

Most of my people have a saying. 'Remember the person as they lived not as they died.'

That is why I asked you to tell me of your connect. On my planet we believe the person truly never dies as long as someone remembers them.

The body may be gone, but the soul lives on in each person touched by that person. Like my grandfather. He may be gone, but he lives on in my family's memories. I may not have ever met him, but a part of him still lives in me. I have been told about him, so his actions and personality still live in me.”

We again walk in silence for some time before Cliff speaks. “Her name was Sasa. And I agree she is dearly departed. She was the most wonderful person in the world. Her smile was exciting. No matter what memory said, she would say they will come.

She would always want me to run. Even when I was down, she made me run. She would say running is like the wind. Always moving, never still.

She would race the children and always let them win. She would always say they were too fast for her, when they weren't. She would always get them to smile.

If someone would not smile for her she would tickle them till they smiled or laughed. She would say a smile is like the sun, always bright.”

“Remember when she tickled, Seth?” Tieth asks.

Cliff perks up and smiles, “Yeah he refused to smile for her. He said today had no smile. So she started tickling him.

At first he resisted, but she kept at it. I thought they would go through the night tickling and resisting. She would not give up.

She found a spot where he jerked, so she went after that spot. He would try to pull away, but she followed him.

He would start to smile but stop. It did not stop her, the more he resisted the harder she tried.

Finally Seth fell to the ground and laughed hard. He kept yelling 'stop, stop I give up' but she kept it up for some time.

When she stopped Seth was out of breath, but smiling. She made him say he would always smile for her, and he always did.”

“Berg what do you remember about her?” I ask.

“Hmm let me think. She would never leave me alone about Peth. She kept telling me to ask her to connect. I kept telling it was not time yet.

She would say, 'Who cares,' and kept bothering me about it.” Berg looks at Peth lovingly. “Now I wish I would have. She was so right about you. You were always my connect.” He leans over and kisses Peth and almost stumbles off his feet. We all laugh, even Cliff.

We continue to talk about Sasa, laughing and crying together. I wish now I had met her. She sounds so wonderful. She was the light in their dark times.

Cliff now seems energetic and attentive. I do not know how they did their grieving time, but I don't think it works well. It wasn't till now that I realized the importance of those wakes.

As a child I had been to one, but I was too young to understand what was going on. I thought at the time the body in the coffin was a dummy. It's strange what a child will think of to make sense of things.

We stop talking for some time and just walk, when I wipe sweat off my brow. It was then I recall the water problem. I looked at the others and they were beginning to sweat too.

Grass. I say in my head. Any luck on the hydration problem?

Not fully. According to figures the algae will sustain them for some time. They have a good schedule on when to take them. After some more figuring we realize that they will be on the verge of dehydration, when you reach the city. There is a facility a little ways in the city for food. We are not sure if they will all have the strength to make it though. Cliff is registered as lacking physically, due to not eating properly. Tieth and Berg should make it no problem. Their system is accustomed to exertion. Why, we're not sure, but they both show increased muscle mass in spite of the general sedentary lifestyle, of most in the town. Peth may also be a problem. Physical scans show very little muscle mass, at least compared to the others. The physical characteristics are not designed for long travel. Her physic is designed for reproduction and nurturing.

I laugh out loud. Everyone stops and looks at me. I notice a tree not too far from us. I point to the tree, “Lets take a break under that tree, and I will explain.” We head to the tree.

We do not understand the humor either. Grass says a little concerned.

Where I am from you would have been called a bigot or sexist. I say in my head.

Why? Grass asks, slightly confused.

Where I come from women are adamant to say they can do anything a man can. And the statement you said would enrage them.

But according to the physical stats it is true.

I laugh in my head. I understand but we humans strive to be more than our physical states. There are some women on earth I would never cross. They could probably bend me like a toothpick.

We do not understand. Grass just sounds to be getting more and more confused.

Berg, Peth, Cliff, Tieth, and I take a seat on the ground out of the sun. Let me explain things to them, then I will try to explain to you. I say in my head, then speak to the others. “Grass had made a comment that would have outraged most of the women on my world. It caught me off guard and I laughed.”

“Can you tell us?” Peth asks, “Or is it just for you and this Grass?”

“No it isn't private. I guess I can see your reaction too.” I say and she nods. “We were discussing the dehydration problem and how it relates to each of us.” I say to begin.

“Do you mind telling us? I feel we need to know to understand our chances,” Berg says.

“Of course, you are right, you deserve to know. Well I am not in the equation since my talents all but alleviate the problem you all have.”

“How?” Tieth asks.

“I have the talent, mimic. When I transform into a plant I am fed in that form. That is why last night I didn't have to sleep. The plant I transformed into overcharged me.” I smile in my head and on my face.

“Well anyway, I am not a factor. Now, Cliff, Grass was a little concerned since he has not been eating right,” I say and Cliff bows his head.

“I will cause us to fail wont I?” Cliff asks.

“Actually no, the computer is just afraid you might be really weak when we get to the city. As long as you don't overextend yourself, you should make it,” I say and Cliff's head rises.

“Now Tieth and Berg, the computer had no concern about. It said they were actually a little more fit then expected.” I say and they nod agreement.

“Now comes the point the woman on my planet would have a fit, on. The computer said that Peth is just physically designed to give birth and nurture,” I say.

All the guys nod in agreement and Peth says, “The computer is right.”

I do a double take on Peth. “Where I come from, the women would call that sexist. And say whatever a man can do a woman can do. And some even say better.”

Peth nods in agreement, “The name I do not know, but the assessment they make is correct also.”

I drop my mouth. “Now you have me confused. How can both views be right?”

Peth looks at me like you would a child that is upset. “The female is designed to give birth and nurture. That is what it was created to do. And I am proud I have that right.

To give life to a living being is the highest honor of any life form. We are the sole reason our species lives on. For any female to demean that is awful.

Now, despite we are designed differently, does not mean we can't do more. Our physique is really not that different then a males.

The few differences do not hinder our ability to do that which a male does. We simply have to work harder in on areas of our life then another.

I agree with Grass or Memory whoever made this assessment. I have already taken that into account when I packed. Berg packed extra for everyone.

When we did not know Tieth was going, we had enough for one extra person, so we did not have to pack for him.

But when you talked of this dehydration I was worried. I have some knowledge of it, but have not had to deal with it.

I was ready to go back and get more supplies to keep the dehydration from being a problem. I know I am fairly safe from it, because I packed extra to compensate for my physical lacking.

You have said you do not need food or water to sustain you, so that has compensated for our lack of extra. I believe we will not have a problem with nutrition or have to worry about dehydration.

If this Grass thinks I have planned wrong, I would be willing to discuss it.”

I just sit there with my mouth open. Grass then says. Okay your planet is right, Females are better.

I look up at an angle, “Hey.”

Well she is right. According to the computer and our figures, she has more than compensated for lack. Oh and you might explain the difference between memory and us. She has already deduced that you are referring to two different things.

I look back at them. They all have dumbfounded looks on their face except Peth. “Well grass and memory agree with you Peth. And Grass told me to explain their difference. Grass realized you had figured out that they were not the same, by the way I talked.” I say and Peth nods.

“Grass is just that, grass. On the destination planet the grass has connected to the computer, and now become a part of it.

From what I gather your ancestors anticipated this and actually encouraged it. I think it makes this a super computer this way.”

Peth nods, “I agree, the systematic functioning of memory added with intuition and intelligent deductive reasoning make the best combinations.”

“Nothing gets past you does it?” I ask Peth.

“Most of the time, no. I am a health support. I am supposed to watch for as many possibilities as possible. That helps prevent severe injury.”

“Alrighty then. I guess since we got the computer in my head and you're connected to Berg, we are good to go,” I say as I get up.

Berg hugs Peth and they all get up. Berg takes the lead and we head off into the wild blue yonder. I now feel however that we have a better than average chance of making it.

As we walk, I see them all take out what looks like gray blocks from a pouch. They pop it in their mouth and swallow. If that has been their food source all their life, no wonder they look depressed. I don't know if I could take that as my only source of food.

I don't know how long we have been walking when I really get thirsty. As I begin to feel the thirst, I start looking for a tree I can see easily and ask in my head, is there a good source of water for the trees in the area?

Yes there is an underground water source that runs along here. We have been keeping an eye out so to speak for you.

Thanks. You think it would be better for me as a tree or grass blade?

We recommend a tree, if possible, their roots go deeper. The tree has also adapted to the drier climate better. The grass is using water that has fallen several weeks ago, and it is drying up.

Sounds good to me. Now I just have to hope there is a tree in site soon.

If you will be okay for ten minutes, a tree will be almost in your path, if berg stays with his course.

Warn me if his direction veers off.

Of course.

After ten minutes of walking I see a tree in the distance, almost directly in front of us. About five more minutes of walking and the tree is in view enough I can use it.

“Hold on everyone,” I say and stop. They follow suit and stop. They all look at me and I continue, “I'm getting really thirsty so I need a minute to refresh. This heat is zapping my reserves.”

“Of course Ben. What do we need to do to help?” Berg asks.

“I would suggest you step back about two steps, and then enjoy the shade for about three hours.”

They all step back and I focus on the tree. I say transform and I am instantly a tree. I don't really feel any different than an earth tree.

I do feel I need to stretch my roots a little to get some water. Once I get the water flowing up, I begin to hear some strange sounds.

At first I think it is talking, but I am unable to understand what I am hearing. I try to strain to pick up anything familiar.

No matter how much I try it just sounds like random sounds in a pattern. I wish I could make out what it is. I know there isn't danger or I would have changed back.

It is your companions talking, Ben Grass says. It's odd this time, I hear it in my tree senses.

Then why can't I understand them, I could, on earth if someone talked. I comment.

They don't talk English, Ben. They talk in their native language. In human form the computer translates for you. But as a tree the computer is not able to translate. We think it has something to do with conflict of interest. The computer says it would be a double translate, and the meanings would be lost so it simply does not try.

But it just translates in English, I could understand. I say, desperately wanting to hear them.

The computer says it is insufficient and unnecessary to translate into a species language that is not present. Grass laughs. Ironic the computer is designed to work with subjects with this ability, but it is unable to fully understand its workings.

That it is. I say then concentrate on water and food.

When I transform back Tieth falls up against me. He jerks up and looks at me, “Sorry I didn't know you were ready to change back. I apologize greatly.”

I smile and say, “Don't worry about it. I've had lots worse happen to me. I got in trouble once for letting my brother fall and break a leg. Like I can warn someone before I change back. Of course that didn't matter, it was still my fault. She said something about not changing, then grounded me. Well tried anyway.”

Peth looks at me strangely, “Why would you get in trouble for a talent? It is an honor to have them.”

I point to indicate movement, “Lets walk while we talk, take up more distance and the air feels good.” Everyone follows Berg. “Because on my planet we did, and do not know anything of the talents. In fact most believe we are alone in the universe.”

“That is a pity, but not unexpected,” Peth says.

We continue to walk in silence. Time at this point really means little to me. The only reason it did on earth was I had to watch it to keep a schedule.

The scheduling here is at dawn they wake up. Find something to keep your attention as long as possible. At dark decide if you are tired enough to sleep. After sleep, repeat the process.

I wonder how people on earth would handle that. No reason to compete with another for position or money. Have everything you need, and a little more. Could humanity as a whole survive?

I look up and see the sun is on its end arch to sunset. I look at the others, and surprisingly, they don't seem to be any worse for wear.

They are actually doing quite well. We are surprised at how resilient human physique is. We have been monitoring Berg and Peth through the computer. Grass says. Cliff and Tieth have not interacted with memory enough to get fully registered. This hinders tracking of them. We can track you easily through the link and the life device. After some analysis of the reactions each of the three of you portray, we have made a startling conclusion.

What is that? I ask in my head.

The five of you might make it to the city sooner than originally calculated. Memory is actually unable to take into account the resilience of the human body. Memory has many millennia of data to work with, but a simple calculation of the human spirit eludes it. No manner of calculating it can make it figure the simplest of truths a human takes for granted. It figures, max of nine hours of walking, and the body will begin to show signs of fatigue. We have been taking the new data from what we get from the five of you. We surprise ourselves with the conclusion. We estimate that the five of you could actually make it in a day or two. This is still taking into account your transformation, and short sleep break. We don't recommend it. That would push your endurance to its limit. But it is possible. We would have never suspected the capabilities of the human design.

We are a bit hard to figure out at times aren't we? I smirk in my head.

Yes you are.

Anything you can think of that would be helpful on the journey?

Actually yes. We have been checking the geography of the planet. There looks to be a pond or spring between you and the city. We have no way of testing the water now, but we might have a way when you need it.

Sounds good, how?

You. They say plain and direct.

Me? I try to wrap my mind around any possible way I can test the water, and come up empty.

Quite simple. You drink the water and change to local fauna. By transforming right after drinking, you protect yourself from any poisoning. After drinking we will be able to analyze its structure while in your system.

Interesting I never thought of that, but that would be the perfect way. I nod my head.

Well not perfect. The actual best way would be to use the scanners at the city, but that would be difficult.

Okay be that way, say I am an inferior device. I chuckle in my head. It takes them a bit, but they eventually laugh. Guess they had to think, on that one.

Could you warn us about an hour before sunset? I think it, wise to be prepared for the night. I don't know what comes out after dark. I say in my head.

As you wish. We think a rest and recoup all night would extend your chances too. Grass says absentmindedly.

What is distracting you? I ask.

What do you mean? We are not distracted, we are able to do many things at once.

I know, and I also know that you can do them all easily. But every now and then it seems like something else seems to attract more of your attention.

We are sorry, we did not realize it was noticeable. We are talking with Seth as well. His conversations are very intriguing. The man thinks deep. He did say since he got the ring, things seem more clear. We explained why to him and that opened more questions from him. It's like each answer creates more questions for him.

Actually it does. That is the inquisitiveness of our two species. That is how they created this vast empire, so to speak. If they had not been always asking questions, none of this would exist.

Intriguing, We have never thought about it before. We have had no one to communicate with to ask questions.

Actually you have the best thing to be inquisitive about. Memory itself. It has in essence all of who and what the Oranians are. They created it. So in every small area of the computer, and even its devices, is an Oranian. I am guessing, but I bet every voice in it once came from or was influenced by an Oranian. The voice on the test temple could not have been a random choice. That voice was chosen because it is very calming to me. If it had been a woman as the subject it probably would have been male. Or it could have been female but less sweetheart-y.

Your right, the voice is programmed from the input from the validation, intriguing. Again they sound distracted.

Well have fun.

Grass's voice sounds down. Sorry we did it again didn't we?

Yes, but it is quite all right, every species does it. You are becoming normal.

Thanks. I can hear the smile in their voice.

We continue to walk in silence. It is taking me a bit to get used to this. Everyone I know on earth tends to talk a lot. These Oranians take what they do very seriously

Most I know talk to fill time, but I guess since they are all used to a very monotonous life, silence is almost expected. The more I am with them the more I pity them.

I cannot imagine having a life like this. To me it would be the roughest, easy life. I would have no clue what would be considered fun here.

To have no games or movies. Eating a cube several times a day. I'm sure they can't have any flavor. They just swallow it like a pill.

I shiver forgetting my talents. The ground shakes and everyone freezes in anticipation. I almost run into Berg before I stop.

“Sorry,” I say, “That was me. Another talent of mine. I forgot about it and it slipped out.”

Tieth looks at me excited, “Wow what else can you do?”

“I can disintegrate things on touch. My touch can cause fear. That is why I never touch anyone. I can blink or as the computer calls it sight teleport, I think.

They were all a pain as a kid, but fear was the worst. I could not have a future connect, because every time I touched a female they would run screaming.”

“That is sad,” Peth says sorrowful, “You must have had an awful childhood.”

“I thought so at the time, but I see you and your plight and I can't believe I felt mine was so bad.”

“We do not have a bad life, Ben. Ours is one of ease. We simply live a life of ease. We have nothing to fear or distract us. We live and we die, it can get no simpler than that.” she makes it sound like I am the one who should be pitied.

“Yes you have everything your body needs. The one thing your lives lack though is stimulation.”

“I do not understand how that is a problem?” Peth states.

“That is because you have grown indifferent. I could never live this way. To never have anything to laugh or cry about. It sounds like hell to me.”

“I don't know what hell is, but we laugh and cry. We did it earlier. We just see no need to be that way all the time.”

“I understand that, but where is the excitement, the desire? Even when you two were connected it was done in a matter of fact way. Where is the celebration, the strive for better?”

“There is nothing more to strive for beyond a connect. And I do not know what more would be needed then head council doing the connect.” she sounds like I am the one needing comfort.

“This is my point. You have become so numb to life, you cannot even comprehend what I am saying,” I say exasperated.

“I am sorry we do not comprehend your meaning. We are quite happy with our lives.”

Grass, is there any references in the computer on entertainment, or anything that they did to have fun? I say in my head. “Wait a moment I am asking the computer something,” I say and they nod.

There are many thousand references to entertainment. Is there any particular area you are interested in?

I send a rough idea of what I want to Grass in one quick thought and visions. I will have to say telepathy would have been really neat talent to have.

A few seconds pass and Grass replies in my head. Yes they had theater as well as games. Not to mention most citizens were given passes, so to speak, to watch the training. After just a quick scan we would say, when the cities were at full functioning and no disease, they were very similar with entertainment as earth. They just had more advanced ways to use it.

Thank you. I say to grass, then speak out loud. “What do you all do for entertainment?”

“Entertainment?” Cliff asks.

“Hmm, what do you do to take up the long hours of the day?”

Berg looks at me like I was an idiot not to know. “We study with memory and call to the makers in our head.”

I roll my eyes, “Oh dear lord, you are all monks.”

They all glance at each other confused, then look back at me. Exasperated I say, “Let's get going, maybe I can show you once we get to the city.” I take off in the direction we were heading.

“I can't believe a race this advanced is reduced to monks. A race that could blow every child’s wildest fantasy on earth out the window.

Every actor and actress would give a left lung just to have a chance to be in an Oranian's movie. Damn I could have even seen a true holodeck if they hadn't been wiped out by a stupid bug.

Good lord I can't believe a damn ugly little disgusting vermin wiped out my chance at a freakin holodeck. I could blow up a damn planet and it truly looks like a planet.

The irony of it all. I wish my whole life to go to the stars and explore strange new worlds. And would you believe I find the one that has damn monks.

Okay fate I get it, you are cruel. You just love the irony of all of this. I am created by aliens to help them be more than mere monks. Shit would the monks on earth love this, a perfect retreat. They could hom de whatever all day and night.”

I was so wrapped up in my ramblings I had not realized Grass was yelling in my head. Would you stop now, it is half an hour before sundown.

I freeze in place, “Oh god how far off course have I gotten us?” I say in panic.

“We are on course, Ben, I think you know it better then me.” Berg says in surprise.

That is thanks to us. Grass says in my head. It is surprising how easy it is to guide you, when you are pissed. You have been rambling for over two and a half hours. We don't think you remember half of what you said. We will have to admit some of it was very funny. We can just imagine what the others thought.

“Oh crap,” I say out loud, and spin around, “I am so sorry.”

“If this is anything like, this entertainment you speak of,” Peth says, “Then I think I understand why you find it necessary. You made us all laugh for some time.

We all feel we could continue this all night. I am glad Grass or computer got your attention though. It is getting late and we will need our sleep tonight.”

“Uh, yeah okay, Yeah right okay, here okay?” I stammer.

“Under the tree over there would be perfect,” Cliff says.

“Yes,” Tieth agrees.

I look and see a tree just a few yards away. I slowly, in humility, head to it. “Sounds good.” I walk to the tree and flop with my back against the truck. The others roll out their bed roles and take a seat facing me.

They watch me intently while I mull in embarrassment. None seem in any hurry to break the silence. After several minutes of feeling like a sideshow attraction, I finally have to say something. “I am so sorry I lost it again. I hope I did not insult any of you.”

They all shake their head and Peth says, “I would not know if I was insulted. I don't know most of what you talked about. At first I thought you were talking to Grass, or the computer. But as you talked I realized you were talking to yourself.

I had thought a mental sickness had come over you. I did not want to interrupt for fear of you becoming physically violent. The part that confused me was you turn in the right directions.

Berg said you were following a path he did not know. At first we were worried you were taking a path of death. Berg then tells me the path you were taking was taking us to the city. He didn't know how you knew.”

“Grass was doing it. I guess when I was upset and rambling he was able to get me to go the right direction,” I say.

“Could Grass guide you when you are not upset or, uh, rambling?” Berg asks.

I'm sure we could. We just have to set it in a higher brain function, and you react where you need to. Grass says in my head.

“He says yes, why?”

“The path he sends you, avoids the traps better than me,” Berg says.

“What traps?” I ask.

Berg points to a patch of dying grass. “There, we have seen them from town so we asked memory. Memory says these are local life under the ground waiting for food.”

I look and see a brown patch similar, but larger, then the ones I saw as we left town. “There is something there under the ground?” I ask.

“Yes,” Tieth says. “I ventured out of town a few times. One time I saw a local life running through the grass. It hit a brown area and two arms came out of the ground and sucked it under. I stayed in town after that.”

“Understandable. Would scare the shit out of me.” I focus on Berg. “Are there any other animals we need to watch for?”

“I don't know,” Berg replies. “I only know of that local life.”

Any info on the local animal life Grass? I ask in my head.

None that we can see that is important. Since the Oranians had the full use of their technology, they didn't see any need to see if any were dangerous. They had devices that would keep what you call a danger at bay.

“Well Grass can't help us on the wild life. Your ancestors didn't have to deal with them, so they didn't make notes on potential dangers.”

“Memory said that the brown spots would eat other life, check for that,” Tieth says.

“That I doubt would work. On my planet there are very little ones that eat other life. These insects could not eat us,” I say disappointed.

“Then have Grass do a search that would find the other life eaters, of a size dangerous to us,” Peth suggests.

“Oh good one, or maybe ones with poison sufficient to disable us, or worse,” I say.

On it. Grass says.

“Grass is checking now,” I say.

“What is this blink and disintegrate you say you have? Can you show me?” Tieth asks.

“I don't like to use disintegrate too much. I hate to destroy things. I feel that it could backfire or something. But I can show you blink.”

I look at a spot a short distance away and blink. I then look back at my spot and blink back. “That is one of the more funner of my abilities,” I say.

“Why would you consider that bad?” Peth asks.

“That one I don't. It is the only one I consider helpful, or fun. It is the others I don't want.”

“Why do you think of them as bad, when memory says they are good?” Cliff asks.

“I really can't answer that yet. But it could be because the computer doesn't have to deal with them

I did a search last night and found that I am not the only one that thought this way. There was a file for those that chose not to use them. At least that is the way I understood it.”

“I would love to have an ability,” Cliff says.

Even in the very dim light I see Berg's eyes widen, “I am okay Berg. I am not hyped on adrenalin as bad. As I said when I scared poor Berg here.

We, including your race, are not able to choose our ability. In fact in every case that I researched, the subject had multiple talents. This leaves too much unpredictability in it. And that is not considering the unknown we all get.

Now since we can't choose, you never know what you get. So take mine as a base to start from. I can never have a connect, because as soon as I touch her she runs as far away from me as possible, screaming.

If I get cold too quickly I could shake a building to its foundation. Then there is the disintegration. If I do not keep watch of what I think, or do, it will happen.

Let's say you get a flower for someone. At any given time I could disintegrate it. More closer to your lifestyle, we go to where you talk to memory. What would you do, or could do, if every time you touch a place to talk to memory and you disintegrate it?”

Cliff just sits there in shock for several minutes. Then barely able to keep his voice from cracking he says, “I did not think of it that way. To never have a connect with Sasa would take away my need to live.”

“Yeah,” Tieth interjects.

“Yes in the right way, and with control, all the talents would be great to have. The problem is that earth and the Oranians very nature prevents it.

In a way it is very disappointing, but that was the reason for the tests. They were trying to find a way to better control them. The only thing is that our nature makes it so we can never truly control them.”

“I agree Ben,” Peth says. “They were trying to predict the unpredictable. In all my time as a health helper I have seen many instances of that.”

I nod. “In a way it is a travesty in so many ways. But we cannot undo the past. Let's get some sleep and get to the city. Maybe we all can find a way to put the future in a better light for those left.”

They all nod and lay down. Now is my long night of sleeplessness. I can still feel the energy of transforming into Grass. I only remember one other time being this over charged.

I stayed up for almost four days straight. My mother thought I would have to go to a doctor. She knew that I get overcharged sometimes, and can't sleep, so that didn't concern her. What worried her was I couldn't focus.

I guess we sleep for more than just physical rest. As the days dragged on, my mental focus began to slip. I was extremely moody.

I had to skip school on the third and fourth day. I was picking fights. I began to yell at the teachers. By the end of it all I was a mess.

After that I was told never to change into an electrical device again. I actually think it was worse for my mother then even me. I didn't realize what I was doing, so when I came down off the change I thought everything was fine. But just like earlier I had no memory of what I had done.

I hope I can keep it together better. The only thing that worries me is as the days and nights progress, it is going to get worse. I could run right into a trap without realizing it.

Ben you will do fine. Grass saying my name startles me. You have us now. We will keep an eye on you. We have learned a few tricks on you to help.

Like direct me while I flip?

Grass chuckles. That was more by accident. We kept trying yelling at you to come out of it. When we noticed you were going off course we yelled turn right, and you slowly followed. It took us only a short while to time the directions right. As we told you the directions we watched the area of your brain that it went. That is when we realized we could direct in what you call subconscious.

Great now I am a puppet. You could run me off a bridge. I say downhearted.

No we couldn't. We don't know how it works, but your subconscious knows what needs done and where to go. It just needs a little coaxing some times. It looks like you are connected to a higher source of energy then we know of. We have watched thoughts and energy flow in and out of your thoughts. We try to find the source, but find nothing. It comes from no particular place in your brain. It is a random generation and location it comes from. So we can only guide, not control.

I guess that is good, but still creepy. But I still don't know what to do tonight. I am going to drive myself up the wall with boredom.

Well we can help you try some experiments with your gifts.

Sure at least it is something to do.

Let's start simple at first. We have some ideas on how you can control the time you are mimicked.

That would be helpful. What you have in mind?

Have you ever tried to set a time in your mind when you mimic?

Actually no, never thought about it. I just always thought it had its own time.

Let's start with your mimicking, something with a minute in your mind. We know your talent, stays in effect for just under three hours without time influence.

I get up and walk a safe distance from the tree, to become one. I set one minute in my mind, and look at the tree and think transform for one minute.

I change and start to feel the water rising in my roots when I am standing in human form again. Um, did it work?

It was off by two seconds, but yes it did.

Neat, this would have alleviated the times I stayed transformed to long

Now we want to try something a little more uncertain.

What? I ask tentatively.

We want you to try mimicking the life device in your pocket. According to our research most who mimic an eternal stone device get stuck. That is why they created the cancel temple. It will counter any talent at any time.

Crap your right, I could be using it to stop my earthquakes.

Yep, but we want you to hold the device in your hand when you mimic. We have a theory that it will mimic with you like your clothes and items on you.

Really, what use would that be? I speak in my head and try to fathom a possible need.

We are not sure right now, but we figure it doesn’t hurt to know.

I laugh. True.

I pull out the life device and put it in my palm. I concentrate on one minute. I look at the device, and think transform for one minute. The device goes fuzzy, but nothing happens.

Nothing happened. I say disappointed.

On the contrary. It worked just as we theorized. That is wonderful. The excitement in Grass's voice is obvious.

But I didn't sense or feel anything. I just saw the device blur. It was then that I felt the energy flow through me.

It was like the energy I got when I mimicked Grass, but ten fold. I could swear I feel every cell in my body jump. I think I just went back to when I was young, and full of energy.

The surge sends a shiver down my spine. Before I realize it I picture the cancellation temple. It was like my brain was thinking faster than me.

I can no longer feel the heat of the air. It is like my body learned a way to cool itself.

The area of my thoughts that were beginning to fuzz from lack of sleep, clears. It is like my mind is more clear than it has ever been.

I look around and my eyes focus instantly on each object. Every line and detail is clear as a bell. It is night but I can swear the sun is just going down.

What the hell is going? I ask in my head.

That is the effect of the eternal stone.

How? I transformed into the temple stone and did not feel this. I say still looking in amazement at all the clarity I am seeing.

That is because temples are used as focus for memory. They are not a device with its own energy source. The life device is a fully functioning device. It has the crystalline structure aligned in patterns to function on its own. So the energy it contains was transferred to you. Since you only mimicked it for a minute, the effects were delayed. The effect on your system was a little more dramatic than we anticipated. We think you just found a way to cancel the fuzzy effect of too much energy, but you may never have to sleep again.

Uh yeah. Really strange.

We are still working on some other theories, so we will wait on them.

Sounds good. How much time is it till dawn? I ask in my head.

Seven hours, three minutes, 5 seconds why?

Their bedding is not alive so I can transform into it, and not have to be bored all night. I say in my head.

We recommend you transform into a tree or grass. It will give you some sense, if the others wake up or something comes around. We know the tree has a different sense of time, so it might seem shorter while in a tree form.

Good point and I know you can talk to me as a tree. I look at the tree and think about transforming for six and half hours.

I feel the water flow in my roots slowly. I have a sense of my surroundings, but my thoughts are slowed. I can still sense everything but I feel I am sleeping too.

Next thing I know I am standing close to the tree looking at the others sleeping. The sun is trying to peak over the horizon. The air is cool and crisp. The breeze seems to have picked up just slightly.

They all look peaceful lying in the morning light. I look at them wondering what I am getting them into. If I had known that Grass could guide me, I would not have let any of them go.

We doubt you could have stopped them. Grass comments.

I could have refused to allow them to go. Lied to them and said they could still get the disease.

One thing wrong with that philosophy. Berg, Peth, Cliff had already volunteered even though they thought the disease could kill them.

Oh yeah. I could have made up something. I say in my head.

We doubt anything you would say would deter Berg. Remember he is willing to lay down his life for you.

Don't remind me. I still don't like the idea. I am no one worth dying over. I say in my head.

Not according to Berg. We are unable to fully comprehend the need to die for another. But we believe Berg does see a need to. We cannot see us being able to ever understand your race. But we do understand you have your reasons for doing what you do. Just as we have our reasons you may never understand. The computer was monitoring all communication in the hall when you stormed out. We heard what transpired in there while you were outside. Berg feels hurt that you would refuse the most highest of honors a man can give a man. I do not know if he feels that way still, but your refusal hurt him. He could not understand what he has done wrong, for you to dislike him so. His connect tried to console him, but he refused to listen. She told him you are just from a different place. Berg told her it didn't matter, it was his own fault for trying to deny that you were sent here to save them. These people still have the servant mentality. It will take years, if not generations, for that to leave. We are uncertain as to how long these people have thought that. You cannot change their view on things in just a few hours. Be patient with them. You have already opened many doors for them. It will be up to them to accept and understand all that you have shown them. But you cannot expect them to accept it all easily.

I watch as each of the others slowly wake up. Each stretching and packing away their beds and belongings. I wonder if I have done these people a big disservice. I am trying to save them, I think, but do they need my saving?

Despite, they have what I consider a horrible life, who am I to say it is wrong for them. And how many of their beliefs have I insulted, due to my ignorance.

They are willing to risk their lives for me, and all I am doing is spitting in their face. And Grass said I had honor. Ha, the true honor lies in these people. Slaving for something they did not understand. Then drop everything to help a man they really don't know.

“Morning all,” I say, trying to sound cheerful. “Another day, another dollar. That is currency on my planet. I'm sure you will ask what that is too. On my planet we have to work for another to get money or currency. Then we take that and buy the stuff we need to survive.”

“Why do you have to work for another just to get this dollar. Why don't you just get what you need from memory?” Tieth asks.

“Where I come from we don't have something that takes care of us, like you do. Everything we get or want we have to work for. As the saying goes on earth, 'Nothing is for free'.”

“I am sorry. Not to have your needs met and having to work for it. You must have lived a very hard life.” Tieth says with sorrow.

I laugh and the others look confused. “I find it ironic, and funny, that you feel sorry for me and I feel sorry for you. We have both lived so different of lives that we think the other is lacking.

If I may suggest, let's stop feeling sorry for each other. We have come from different cultures. All cultures have their bad and good qualities.

I suggest we exchange ideas where possible, and take from them what we want. And form now on we need to say how we feel about our different cultures, only to help us all understand each other.”

I look at Berg, “I may have pried into a conversation that was not mine to know. But you have done nothing wrong Berg.” Berg looks at me with fear. “I am the one who has done wrong.

You have given your oath to me. And even on my planet it is an honor you have done. It was I who dishonored you. To refuse what you have given is what on my planet is called a spit in the face. I did not mean to do that.

If it wasn't for you this all would have been for naught. I will honor you as much as you honor me. All I ask is say what you feel. I may rant and rave, but I wouldn't be at this point without you.”

I scan the group, “Each of us has something to offer this mission. Let us all work together to find an answer that has been elusive for many a millennia.” They all nod their heads.

“Which way to start Grass?” I ask.

Just start turning and we will say when. I start turning to Grass's instruction. When.

I stop and then start walking. I then stop and turn around. “I'm sorry is everyone ready? I keep forgetting not everyone is an energizer bunny.”

They almost chime in unison, “I am ready.”

“Good the sooner we get there the better.” I turn and walk in the direction Grass pointed out. “You all can talk or ask questions if you want. For me it would help so Grass can guide me easier. I don't know if you just want me to ramble. Well not like before, but I would think not much better.”

“What is an energizer bunny?” Tieth asks.

“Oh it is off a commercial. They are selling batteries. There is a toy bunny that has energizers in it's back. The commercial says something like 'Energizers keep going and going'.”

“Commercial?” Tieth asks.

“Oh forgot you all don't have TV. In my world we have something like your memory outlets in the memory building.

The main difference is that we cannot ask it questions like here. A group of people put what they think the masses will be interested in watching for entertainment.

Well to keep the stations on the air, or continuing to show on the box, they have to play commercials. I mentioned earlier about work. The commercial is kind of similar. Just as I get paid to work, the TV stations get paid to show the commercial. By them doing that, they have money to give others to keep the station on the air.

I could try and explain the reason for money and barter, but I think I would just confuse you. Just like you have memory, but don't know how it does what it does, that is how it is with money and currency for me.”

“So it is a means to keep account on a wide based scale, the exchange and record of items?” Peth asks.

“Um I guess so. Finances was never my forte, so I gave up trying to figure it out.” I say a bit at a loss for words.

“You spoke of doctors at one point. Could you explain their duties?” Peth asks.

“A doctor is like what you do. If someone gets hurt or ill they try to make them better. Unlike you, they don't have the computer to help them figure out what is wrong. They have to rely on trial and error.

They are always trying to find better ways to heal and help others, but are hindered by many things. But I personally think greed is the main culprit.”

“Can you explain this greed?” Peth asks.

“Well the best I can explain it, is a person wanting more than their share. After you give them what they need or want they want you to give them more. It doesn’t matter how much you give them they want more.”

“Can you explain how greed hinders the development of some better health care?”

“Well the people in place, in the hierarchy, or level take the money they could be used for research. Or a group will stop a product from being used to help, because they will lose money.

But these are just my views. If there were others here from my world, I'm sure they would see it differently.”

“Of course,” Peth responds.

“Can you tell us what it was like growing up for you?” Tieth asks.

“Are you sure you want to hear it all?” I ask.

“I think so too,” Peth says. “We can ask questions as you tell your story, to learn of your culture.”

“Very well,” I say.

I start from what my mother had told me about my first episode. I progressed through my life slowly. They ask questions where they were unsure of what I had said. Most of the questions were of things they knew nothing of.

We stopped when I needed water and changed into a tree where possible. We also stop when one of them gets too hot. I change into a tree to shade them from the sun.

Before I know it Grass says. It is one hour before sunset. By that time I had gotten to my graduation.

I did not realize I could talk for so many hours. On earth I was the child or teenager that sat back and just listened. I guess I had a lot of talking to get out.

We found a rather large tree this time. It had to be two to three times bigger then the one last night. All the trees we had seen up to this point, were about the same size.

I look around to see if I can see any other trees. Unfortunately none were close enough to compare to. The other four set out their bed rolls and sit to relax.

“Do any of you think it odd that this tree is larger than the rest?” I ask.

“We really haven't anything to compare to.” Berg says.

“Well I have been watching the trees we pass, and this one seems larger in comparison. Let me check something before the sun sets. Be right back.” I say.

I look for a visible tree in the general path we were heading. I blink to it. The tree seems slightly larger than the one we are camping at. I look and can barely see the tree we stopped at.

I look around, but don't see a tree in view that would still be in view of camp. I pop back and see Cliff jump. “Sorry, I startle a lot of people with that one.”

“It's okay,” Cliff says and settles down.

“The next one is slightly larger. I can't figure it out,” I say dumbfounded.

You are close to the water source. Grass answers in my head.

“Doh, of course. I forgot Grass had told me of a pond or something. Tomorrow we might reach it. Although I didn't realize it would be closer to the city.”

Actually when you reach the pond, you will be in sight of the city. Grass says.

“Grass says when we reach the pond we will be in view of the city. We can't be too far now.”

“I think you have taken off a full day's travel the way you have gone,” Berg says. “I lost our way about mid-day.”

“I'm curious Berg, how do you know the way, if you have never been out of the town?” I ask.

“When you become part of the council the council member has the memory added, it is part of the joining.

Our ancestors hoped to one day return, so they sent a person to lead the way. When they returned they had the memory added to the joining of the council.

That is how we get the knowledge of the traps. The scout almost got trapped. They were told not to enter the city, just see it and come back.”

“You mean you can add a memory to someone that has never done it?” I ask, very intrigued.

“Yes it is the position of head council to grant memory where it is needed.” Berg points out, like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

“I'm sure that is very handy,” I say.

“No it is done with the staff, not the hand,” Berg says.

“What?”

“You said the hand does it easily, but it doesn't, the staff does it,” Berg looks really confused.

I just looked at him trying to figure out when I said that. Then Grass comes into my head. You said handy and the computer interpreted it being very good with your hands. We have noticed a few miss translations, but the others were close enough to get the point across. The computer is learning your language like we did. But being a computer, it is limited. It is progressively learning slang, but it still has trouble.

“Ah,” I say, “No I was not referring to how it was done. The word was not translated right. The word I guess has no direct translation. I basically mean that must be very helpful.”

Berg nods in reluctant understanding. I wonder how many other words got all messed up. I am sure at times I really sound like a babbling idiot.

Actually no you don't, the computer does a fairly good job. If we catch a wrong, we correct it. The only thing is that we can only correct after it has already been said.

Okay, I say in my head, then say, “It seems Grass is trying to correct miss translations, but only after it has been already said. So if something doesn't make complete sense, please ask. Eventually the translation will catch most errors.”

“Okay,” they say in unison.

“Well I guess tomorrow I can show you water. Grass has a way to check if it is safe.”

“Why would it not be safe?” Peth asks.

“In the wild when things die they release contaminates or poisons. Sometimes they seep into the water. I figure that your ancestors only colonize those planets closest to your home planet. So the air at least is safe.

But since the cities sustain the population, the water out here was not a concern. It wouldn't matter if there was something in the water that would harm, because they would filter it out if they even needed the local water supply.”

“How do you know this?” Tieth asks.

“Well most is assumptions based on what I have seen when it comes to your ancestors. But that with the water contaminates is based on experience. Earth has some areas where the water would be poisonous if drank

We have buildings that are designed to filter it out. On earth if you don't drink, you will die. So to keep us all alive we have to filter the water to make it safe.

Actually you all need water like earthlings, but you just get it through your food. Somehow your ancestors found a way to put all the liquids you need in those algaes”

“So this water is ingestible?” Peth asks.

“That is what I will check with Grass's help. But yes you can ingest it if there is nothing bad in the water.”

“I look forward to this water. Sounds interesting and new,” Peth says.

“It sounds so strange, someone saying that about water. On earth it is essential, so the words interesting and new don't get associated with it.

I have really enjoyed being here. It makes me realize what my people take for granted. It is refreshing to experience through all of you.”

“I will not talk for everyone, but it is the same for me too,” Berg says and the others give an enthusiastic nod.

They all settle down to sleep for the night. I take turns sitting under the tree and getting up to looking around.

I wait till I'm sure they all are asleep and blink to the other large tree. “Can you get me back to them if I do some looking around?” I ask.

Yes, easily. We have learned a lot of the intimidating terrain. Grass responds.

“Point me in the direction of the city,” I begin to turn and stop when Grass says, “When.”

I look for a tree in sight, but it is getting too dark to see. I pick a grass area and start to blink, but remember the traps. “I suppose you don't have an idea on how I could blink and easily miss the traps do ya Grass?” I ask.

Not safely sorry. We use your sight to see the brown spots. There is no easy way to detect the areas with the items you have.

“No problem,” I say then I remember the head band. “Do you think it safe to try out the band?”

Yes, we see no reason the Oranians would have a device that is dangerous.

“But you said it is experimental,” I say cautiously.

The Oranians would not have it accessible to the public if it had the possibility of harming. It is considered experimental by the computer, because it has no info on it. It has a level five clearance so even the computer cannot access its info. We asked you to take it because the Oranians appear to leave level five items and info for you. Or at least for the person they wanted to help them.

“True. They seem to have almost predicted just about every step I have made. Like you, I think it was left for a purpose. Now we just have to find it. I guess I should have had it on all along.”

It is possible, but as you pointed out they have predicted just about every move you have made. So we assumed that when it was time, you would remember it. A possible dangerous chance on our part, but we are interested in trying a few theories and that is one. Sorry if you feel we are using you, but necessary for the theory.

“Not a problem. I know you would never knowingly put me in danger, you would lose your puppet.” I smile.

Yes you are a fun puppet. Grass smirks. I don't know how I know that but, I do.

I reach into my pocket and find the head band. I pull it out and examine it. I turn it around in my hand, looking for anything unusual or strange.

I can't even find a seam where it was connected, if it ever was. It feels like some hard rock, but flexes like an elastic headband. The color in the darkness is a dark gray. It looks lighter though in color then even the wood-stone of the buildings.

I put it on my head with a bit of hesitation. When I get it around my forehead, the band forms to the shape of my head and solidifies. I touch it softly and find it no longer has the elastic feeling. It is a solid stone that was cut perfectly to my head.

In a panic I grab at it to remove it. The thought of a permanent stone crown scares me. As I grab it to take it off. It changes back to elastic and comes off easily.

I stare in shock as what was just a solid stone, now dangles in my hand like cloth. I put it back on and it solidifies, after it forms to my head.

I stand stiffly waiting to see what happens next. After what feels like an eternity in my mind I ask Grass, “Anything?”

Hold on, the computer is in the middle of something with the thing. The device is reprogramming some areas in the computer.

“Great, I am breaking the computer,” I say exasperated.

No, we don't think so. On the last word I hear it echo around me.

“What was that?”

“What?” the word comes in my head as Grass, but I physically hear it as the multiple echo, like I heard when Grass talked through the computer.

“Um I can hear you audibly,” I say waiting for the echo.

“How?” again I hear it in my ears as well as in my head. “You can hear us?” Grass's multiple echo voice is all I hear.

“Yes, and this is very weird and disturbing.”

How about now? All I hear is Grass in my head.

“Yeah but the way we have been talking. In my head.” I say still cringing. I realize it and relax.

“This device is directly linking to the computer and you,” Grass says audibly. “Since we are considered the computer it will speak when we think to communicate.

We have to do a little shifting in the computer, not to be broadcasting through it. It is a unique experience. As we speak we are trying to figure out what is being reprogrammed.

Since the device is level five clearance, we are not able to follow it completely. It is also accessing the desperation clause. We really hate not having access, we know we are missing a lot.”

It is a strange thing to hear Grass being frustrated. I don't think there was ever anything they couldn't figure out. Now the Oranians have created an unknown for them.

“Yes they have. Now we know a little of what it is like for you. We definitely sympathize.” Grass says with frustration.

I can't help but laugh, “Sorry, but it is kind of funny, Grass.”

“We know, the irony has not escaped us,” I can almost hear a growl in the voices.

“Well I am going to pop back and mimic a tree till morning,” I say.

“Okay,” there is an unmistakable growl that time.

I pop over to the other tree, or at least what I hope is the tree. It is a good thing the tree was so big. It created a dark area to focus on. I am a little off from where I thought I would appear, but it is close enough.

I adjust to give plenty of room for when I change. I didn't want to disturb Grass, so I figured seven hours. I hope I am not too far off.

I change back as the sun is just becoming visible over the horizon. The others are in the process of packing up. I hear a soft gasp and see everyone looking at Peth looking at me.

They turn and look at me. Each in turn showed shock looking at me. I stand confused for a moment till I remember the band. I tentatively touched it to see if it was still there. My fingers brush across the hard stone.

“Is this what caught your attention?” I ask.

They all nod with their eyes glued on my rock head band. I take a deep breath, “I am guessing this was supposed to be worn by the head of council? It seems to be a direct link to memory now, says Grass. Say hi Grass.”

“Hi,” Grass says and I can tell they are still distracted.

“Is it still reprogramming?” I ask.

“Yes, we are discussing it with Seth. Seth remembers something about a crown in his initiation to head council, so we are working with him to figure out what it is.”

“Well good luck,” I say.

“Yeah,” Grass sounds really distracted.

I look back at the others. They all are unmoving, with a permanent look of shock. “Oh and you can hear him. Oops sorry forgot to warn you about that.”

They just continue to stand and stare. I finally had to break the silence, “Okay it shouldn't be that much of a shock. You all deal with this technology all the time.”

“It is not what it is or does, it is you and it,” Peth finally says.

“I don't understand,” I state confused.

“There are several statements in memory about the one with the crown shall lead,” Peth says.

“Yeah your main council was supposed to wear it to lead you all.”

“No you do not understand. Grass can you help me?” Peth pleads.

“I think I can. The translation is the barrier here. I think the closest translation is, 'the crowned one shall lead them anew'. That is not exactly, but we think we can paraphrase.

With help of Seth we have figured out the crown is a key. For what we do not know. What we gather is the crown is linked to the desperation clause. How is not clear.

But the clause did realize that the one that wears the crown is the key to a new beginning. With what little we have deciphered about the reprogramming, the crown is now directly linked to you and you alone.

We anticipate that anyone attempting to use it will fail. We did see a consequence clause on the crown, but it links to the desperation clause.

Seth warns Berg, Peth, Cliff, and Tieth strongly never to touch it. We think you will die, but Seth warns of the repercussions of going against law.”

Peth gasps very audibly and steps back, “Tell Seth we all understand fully. And we would never counter the crown.”

“Oh god now what have you gotten me into Grass?” I ask in disgust.

“We do not know, but our theory seems to be proving itself again. That crown was programmed to recognize human DNA. They knew a human would find it.

Your DNA, and we think your unknown talent is reprogramming the computer. The computer and the desperation clause keeps accessing your unknown talent. How we don't know, but several clauses are linked to your unknown talent.

“We are sorry Ben, but you are linked so deep to the computer that you can never escape it.” Grass says. I start to reach for the crown.

“Sorry to late,” Grass says and my hand freezes, “Even if you take it off, it will continue. It is merely an audible device so others can hear us and the computer. We think we got you in really deep. We are so sorry.”

I can not say a word. I just slowly lower my hand and stare into space. It doesn't matter what I do. Some things keep drawing me farther into oblivion. I just wanted a normal life, and everything I do takes me even farther from normal.

I don't know how long it has been when I hear Peth say, “What is it that disturbs you Ben? You have a great destiny ahead of you.”

Without thinking I respond, “That is the problem, I don't want it. All I ever wanted is a normal average life.

I cannot remember a time when I could just get up in the morning and not worry. All I wanted is to be able to get up, do what everyone else does and not worry that I would cause a scene.”

“I do not know what causes a scene means, but you are normal around here. Our ancestors had many races with similar talents as you.

They all interacted together with each other, and others of the Makers. We are considered not normal here. We may be descendants to the makers, but we are not like them. We have lost who we are.

You are our normal around here. We have always known we are here to help you with your talents and much more. You have nothing to fear here. We have studied our whole lives to help you through all this.”

“Nothing in my life is normal. You all may have trained to handle this, but I have not. I did not choose this. I do not want it,” I say defeated.

“None of us can choose our lives. We can only choose our destination. Even our ancestors knew that. You take what you are given, and find the destination you want. Through fear you tend to choose poorly.” Peth sounds so comforting.

“But it is so hard to live up to expectations.”

A soft smile emerges on Peth's face, “We expect nothing of you Ben. You have already fulfilled your role as leader.

You have shown us who we are. You have opened areas we had feared to go. You have us hope where it was beginning to fail. You have given us more than we expected.

Do not think we expect anything of you. You have convinced the most doubtful of us. That is a feat that is not easy. We follow you to see what other wonders you will show us.

If we expect anything it is to see you be you. We just want to be around you, nothing more. Many of the others wanted to come just to be with you. They thought they could not.

They did not want to come to see some wonder out here. We can see what the city looks like in memory. They just wanted to see you be you. Just your presents inspires us.

I do not know what you think we expect of you. Just know that we expect you to be you, nothing more. Everything extra you do is a bonus to us, and only gives us more to admire about you.

I know you have asked us to not feel sorry for the others, but I do feel sorry for you. Not because of what your planet is like or not like. I feel sorry that you feel you do not deserve what you are given. It must have been horrible for you growing up wanting to be different then you are.”

I do not know what to think. She makes me feel sorry I disappointed them. Not because of what I have or have not done, but because I am not allowing them to see the true me.

Then I wonder who the true me is. Have I been me or what I think others think of me? Even the phrasing of the thought makes no sense to me. Have I been trying to be something that has no basis?

Who is it that I think I am? Am I who I want to be, or what I think others want? Peth is right we can not choose who we are. We can only choose our destiny. I do not know what I want, but maybe on my journey to destiny I will find it.

I look at each of them energetically, “Okay I am done. Anyone else ready to find this pond?” I ask with excitement.

Berg, Cliff, and Tieth nod with a bit of suspicion and shock on their face. Peth looks at me with understanding, “Yes.”

“Okay, let's chug along,” I say and head in the direction that Grass indicated last night. “Oh and chug is a reference to a type of transportation device on earth that follows a track. The type of propulsion it uses causes the sound chug chug.

I am hoping to reach the city some time today. Grass says it should be in sight from the pond. Oh I don't think I explained why I call it a pond. On earth a pond is a small body of water.

An ocean is a larger body of water that takes up a major portion of the planet. A creek is a small stream of running water. Now those I love.”

I rattled on and on about nothing in particular. Peth asks me a question when she is unsure what I am talking about. The other three do not say a word. I don't know if I have scared them, or they just don't want to see me flip again.

As I was explaining a plane with a little hand movement I noticed some things on the horizon. I stop talking and focus on the horizon. “Can you all see what that is?”

“That is the city,” Berg says excited. “It looks a little different than memory, but it is the city.” It sounds like Berg is about to jump out of his skin with excitement.

“Well that explains why the pond is not mentioned in your memory. The city is visible before the pond. This city must be huge.”

“I have looked at the city in memory, and it is ten times the area of town and almost twenty times higher,” Peth says.

“Now those must be some magnificent skyscrapers.” I comment.

“They are buildings, not scrapers of the sky,” Peth says.

I laugh, “No that is a saying on my planet. The really tall buildings are called skyscrapers, because they look like they are scraping the sky.”

“Oh interesting comparison. I will enjoy seeing these skyscrapers,” Peth says.

“Me too,” I say.

I watch the horizon as we walk. The city slowly rises to cover the horizon. It expands as well as growing taller. I have never imagined its size before. This city would dwarf even the largest city on earth.

I then notice a glint from the sun at the base of the city. As we walk the glint becomes a shimmer. After some walking I realize that the light is not reflecting off any part of the city.

It looks to be on the ground in a small area. Then we get close enough to see the pond Grass talked about. I was expecting something much larger.

The pond is about the size of a small house. It looks more like a puddle then a pond. In the center The center bulges at a regular basis causing waves. Grass comes all the way to the water where it laps continuously. We come up to the edge of the water. I expect the ground to be soggy, but it feels just as dry as everywhere in this vast prairie.

“Grass, where is the water coming from?” I ask.

“Most of the water in this area is in an underground stream. This is one of several areas the ground allows the water to the surface. The movement of the water underground pulls the water back down as fast as it is pushed up.

The movement of the water has created a strange ring within a ring effect, at the springs location. There are several of these under the city. They are used within the city. There are some allowed to continue their own activity in sight of the public areas. We figure for décor,” Grass responds through the head band.

“Well have you figured out if the water is drinkable, or should we try the testing thingy?” I ask.

“The city has filters for the water. It does not say if it could be drank without the filters.”

“Okay, get ready,” I say, leaning to get some water.

“Ready,” Grass says.

I cup my hands and get a drink. I slurp a little up and swallow. The taste is very refreshing. It is much cooler than I expected in this hot area. It tastes fresher than any water I have ever had on earth.

I look at a grass blade and think transform for five minutes. As the blade of grass, I drink even more of the water. Along with the carbon in the air, I am given a boost of energy, then I am back as a human.

“Crap,” I hear Grass exclaim.

“What?” I say in desperate fear.

“Oh sorry there isn't danger. It is just that as you mimicked, the computer started reprogramming itself again. We hate to do it, but we will have to ask you to do it again.”

“Not a problem, but how long do I need to stay as a grass for you to get a result?” I ask.

“Oh the mimic is for your safety, not our readings. You just have to change long enough to reset your human form.”

“Oh, okay that makes things faster.” Again I look at the grass, but this time I say transform for two seconds, after I take the drink.

I barely realized I had changed, when I was back human. Not as disorientating as changing to eternal stone, but still strange.

“There are no poisons in the water, but we found the source of the disease.”

“What?” all of us say together.

“In our test of your system we found a virus strain similar to the one that killed the Oranians. It has mutated a bit more, but its outer coating prevents filtering or eradication. The outer coating of the virus reacts with eternal stone in a way that the computer registered it as itself.

In other words the virus disguised itself to get in, ingenious. Strange though the virus strain is weaker then any in your system. Could we have you drink some without changing? You don't have to fear, the strain was already being attacked before you changed.”

“No problem, it tastes really good.” I reach down and take gulp after gulp in my hand.

Grass laughs, “Okay, Okay you can stop now.”

“Do I have to?” I say between drinks.

“No, we can monitor you while you drink. Strange though the antibodies are not eradicating the virus. The result is more a combination to better adapt both host and virus. We will keep monitoring to see what happens. If something looks wrong we will let you know to change.”

I finally stop and stand up, “What about the others?”

“We can not guarantee anything without a proper monitoring device. We can not be sure of the results.”

“I will try it.” Berg says.

As he heads to the hole, Cliff grabs his shoulder. “No I will. You are council linked. That will be needed for memory. I am the obvious choice. Peth is needed for health and Tieth needs to find out what happened to his brother.

I no longer have a death wish, but I would not regret dying. I will take this chance. As Ben said we are all here for a reason. This is mine.”

Cliff reaches down and takes a drink, like I did. “This is really good,” he bows down as close as he can without falling. He then drinks as fast as he can.

After several fast gulps I reach down and touch his shoulder. “Slow down or you will make yourself sick.”

He stops and turns his head towards me, “How?”

“For one, none of you are used to water like this. And another is if you drink fast, the body could react adversely to all the water and the heat. There are cases of people throwing up because they drank too fast.”

“Oh.” He turns and slows his drinking, I remove my hand.

“Put your hand back on him,” Grass screams.

I put my hand back on his shoulder quickly and Cliff freezes. He had just gotten another cup of water and it slowly leaked out of his hand. We all stand frozen in anticipation.

A minute passes before Grass speaks again, “They all can drink. It will not hurt any of you.”

I slowly pull my hand away from Cliff and ask, “How do you know?”

“When you touched Cliff the computer was able to link to him directly. With the crown you seem to be a physical device for the computer.

The computer was in the process of doing a complete scan on Cliff when you let go. We told you to touch him again to finish the scan. It hinted at the virus in the first part of the scan.

When you touched him again it finished. The virus is already present in them. We should have seen this. The algae that is growing needs water, and so do they. Water is not produced by the town. So the town had to be built on a spring.

Everyone on the planet already has antibodies to the virus. We are so dense sometimes. The people here obviously had to gain an immunity, otherwise they would have all died. Doh.” You can hear a slap like a hand hitting flesh.

“Do you feel better homer?” I ask.

“Yes.”

I look at the others, “Well enjoy, just remember slowly.”

Cliff continues drinking at a slower rate. The other three slowly approach the pond and give it a try. They then look at each other and nod. They resume their drinking at about the pace of Cliff.

I decide here is as good as any, to take a break. I step back far enough, so when I change I do not hit anyone. Then I step a few paces back, just in case the tree is larger than I expect.

On the other side of the pond I see a tree and transform for two hours. I feel the sun on my leaves and the water rushing up my trunk. I doubt I will ever get to the point of taking this feeling for granted.

When I change back, Cliff falls backwards. I guess he was sitting up against my truck. He jerks up to his feet. It is always funny to see what reaction I get when I change back.

“Ready? I figured you all could use a break after all the water,” I say.

“Thank you,” Peth says, “I know I feel better after. This water is very refreshing I think you said.”

“Yep, well off to the city for more wonders,” I say and head in the direction of the city.

It is almost sunset when we reach the edge of the city. Just coming up on this huge city, is awe inspiring. I thought the buildings would never stop growing.

I have been in a city with a few skyscrapers, but this is overkill. It looks to be a solid wall of black, reaching into the sky. There are several buildings reaching into the sky. Some buildings sit back to back. The only indication there are two buildings is that they were not the same height.

I couldn't see any windows in the structures. It is like walking up to a bunch of blocks placed in the middle of nowhere. The sun glints slightly off the reflective surface.

You would think with that much black stone in the direct sun, it would be an oven close to the city. The strange thing is it feels cooler as we get closer to the city.

As we approach I remember Tieth's brother. I stop several yards from the city. I tried to figure it out beyond the point the computer said I was leaving the town.

“Grass did Tieth's brother disappear anywhere around here?” I ask.

“Yes, but a little ways to your left. We have been trying to theorize what happened, but we only come up with death and we are hoping we are wrong. We would hate for him to get this far just to fail.” Grass responds.

“Agreed,” says. Tieth.

I head to my left keeping my distance from the city, “Grass does the city have any type of defenses?”

“Not that we have located. If there are defenses, they are so subtle the computer doesn't consider them as such.”

“Well that kinda blows my theory. I thought with the virus in there, they would register as needing eradicated.”

“No, the computer would never smite the host for defense. Otherwise it would have happened in town. There is a shield, but it is not active. It was shut down when everyone left..”

“Tell me where Tieth's brother disappeared,” I say.

“Go straight about five more steps,” Grass says.

I stop at the point Grass indicated. I point away from the city. “You all step way out there. Grass check the shield for any stipulations on when it will activate itself.”

Several moments pass then Grass says, “The only one I find is if a threat was trying to get in.”

“Now check to see if the computer considers the virus a threat.”

“No it doesn't. When you had it calculate the virus mutation, the computer flagged it as medical, not a threat,” Grass says with a bit of confusion seeping into their voice.

“But before that the computer considered the virus a threat?”

“Yes.”

“Okay let me step over with the others then activate the shield,” I say and walk to the others.

“We don't understand,” Grass definitely sounds confused now.

“Humor me.”

“Very well,” Grass says then there is a slight pause. “Done.”

I look around for something loose, but find nothing. I look at the others, “Do any of you have an extra food thingy?”

Pet reaches into her pouch and pulls one out. She hands it to me a little confused. I take it and face where Tieth's brother vanished. I throw the food as hard as possible at the location.

It vanishes in a flash of light, in mid air, over the location the brother vanished. Peth gasps.

“My brother was disintegrated.” You can hear a tear in Tieth's voice.

I look at Tieth, “I don't think so. The computer would know if it destroyed something. But it said he vanished.”

“Got ya, checking.” Grass says.

“I do not understand,” Tieth says.

I look at him sympathetically. “Your ancestors had the technology to transport a person from one point to another. In the process of this, information had to be stored to reassemble the item or person being transported.

Well by all accounts your ancestors did not like to destroy or kill living beings. So the only thing that could happen is the shield was designed to alleviate the threat. The best way to do that without killing is to store it till someone can find an effective way to alleviate the problem permanently.”

“So you think my brother is in memory?” Tieth asks.

“Yes, and Grass is checking now.”

“And the answer is yes,” Grass says. “But we cannot get him out till transportation is opened up.”

“Deactivate the shield Grass. I guess we continue till we can figure out the level five mess.” I say.

As we entered the area where the shield was the temp changed. It is the same as that around the town. The sun does not burn as it did out in the prairie.